The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Field Artillery) Robert Hinds Scales, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action in the Republic of Vietnam, on 14 June 1969. Captain Scales distinguished himself while serving as the Commanding Officer of Battery B, 2d Battalion (Airmobile), 319th Artillery Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, at Fire Support Base BERCHTESGADEN, Republic of Vietnam. During the early morning hours on the cited date, the fire base came under heavy sapper attack. Captain Scales subjected himself to the intense enemy mortar and rocket propelled grenade fire as he moved directly to each howitzer section. He supervised and assisted in direct firing and in preparing ammunition for each howitzer. As the battle continued, Captain Sales mortally wounded several insurgents who had penetrated the perimeter as he constantly moved throughout the battery area to lead his men. Although he was knocked to the ground several times as satchel charges went off near him, he continued to subject himself to the attack as he directed illumination fire missions, enabling the helicopter gunships to adjust fire upon the enemy positions around the battery area. Captain Scales’ personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.